Increasing numbers of solo travellers of all ages are choosing to head off on their own for their next adventure. Often exciting and surprising, occasionally lonely and tough, solo travel can be lots of things but is very rarely dull.

We’ve pulled together some advice for solo travellers to ensure you get the best from your solo experience.

Know yourself

Be honest when planning your trip to ensure you plan an experience that works to your strengths and personal preferences. Do you like spending some time alone and confident you’ll meet people as go? Or would you prefer to join a group for part or all of your trip to meet others with similar interests and outlooks?

Be selfish

One of the most wonderful things about travelling alone is not having to accommodate someone else’s wishes. So forget what everyone says you “must see/do” and do what you want. Don’t fancy visiting that temple? Don’t go! Want to spend all day in your new favourite eatery? Go right ahead.

Disconnect

Social media offers a whole heap of benefits when travelling alone. From letting friends and family know you’re safe and having a good time, to getting advice on a destination to booking your next bus journey. However if you’re constantly staring at your phone or laptop you’re less likely to take in what’s going on around you or strike up conversations with new acquaintances. Use the time to disconnect from your online life for a while.

Take a course or join a club

Taking a course or joining a club can be a great way to meet people and get a local’s view of a destination. Go to yoga class, join a running club or take a cookery course and no one will think it strange that you’re on your own. Taking local language classes can also be the perfect way not only to feel more confident travelling alone but its also a great opportunity to meet other travellers.

Join a group

Joining a small group tour for all or part of your trip has so many benefits. Not only will you meet other like-minded solo travellers but you’ll also benefit from the knowledge of expert local guides who can take you well off the usual tourist paths, save money (small group travel means splitting the cost of travel, permits and accommodation etc.) and be able to take a break from the daily planning. Want to incorporate a small group adventure into your next solo adventure? How about overlanding through Africa? Sailing across an ocean? Or even running a marathon?